HONG KONG: Iraq and Australia secured their advancement to the third round of Asia’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday, each claiming victories over the Philippines and Lebanon, respectively. Meanwhile, South Korea moved closer with a 3-0 triumph over Thailand.
In Manila, Iraq achieved their fourth consecutive win as Jesus Casas’ squad delivered a resounding 5-0 victory against the Philippines. Aymen Hussein struck twice in the first half, flanked by a goal from Amir Ali Ammari. Zidane Iqbal and Zayed Tahseen found the net in the 61st and 77th minutes, sealing the win for Iraq, who now lead Group F with 12 points, comfortably ahead of Vietnam, who suffered a 3-0 defeat against Indonesia in Hanoi.
Indonesia’s triumph bolsters their chances of progressing to the next round, as they solidify their grip on second place in the group, leaving Vietnam trailing with two games remaining. Meanwhile, Australia’s Craig Goodwin scored twice in their 5-0 victory over Lebanon in Canberra, ensuring the Socceroos’ progression from Group I with a perfect record from four matches.
Elsewhere, Palestine secured a crucial 1-0 win over Bangladesh, propelling them to second place in Group I with seven points, five ahead of Lebanon. In Group C, South Korea bounced back from their previous draw with Thailand, securing a 3-0 win in Bangkok, courtesy of goals from Lee Jae-sung, Son Heung-min, and Park Jin-seop. China also climbed to second place in the group with a 4-1 victory over Singapore, led by Wu Lei’s brace, positioning themselves three points ahead of Thailand.
